Cuts & Scrapes

While minor cuts and scrapes don't always require professional medical treatment, it is important to use proper care to avoid infections or other complications.

Treatment:

• Stop the Bleeding. If the wound doesn't stop bleeding on its own, apply continuous, gentle pressure with a clean bandage for 20 to 30 minutes. If the bleeding continues, seek immediate medical treatment.
• Clean the wound. Rinse the wound with clean water. Avoid using soap, as it may irritate the wound. If there is dirt or debris embedded in the wound after washing, visit a provider at MedExpress, who can properly attend to the cleaning. Thorough wound cleaning reduces risk of infection and tetanus.
• Apply an antibiotic. Once the wound is clean, apply a thin layer of antibiotic ointment or cream. This keeps the surface moist, reduces risk of infection, and aids your body in healing more efficiently.
• Cover the wound. A bandage helps keep fresh wounds clean and bacteria-free. Once it begins to heal, exposing the wound to air speeds up the healing process.
• Check dressing and watch for infection. Change the bandage daily, or if it gets dirty or wet. If you notice the wound isn't healing, or if there is increased pain, drainage, warmth, or swelling, visit MedExpress to have a medical provider treat the wound.

If it has been more than five years since you received a tetanus shot and the wound is dirty, seek treatment to have your vaccination updated. Remember that your tetanus immunization should be updated every ten years.

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